Private Airline to Provide Competition For Croatia Airlines

Croatia’s national carrier Croatia Airlines are about to get some competition domestically with the launch of a new private airline. Libertas Air, set up by former pilot and owner of tour operator Carpe Diem Zoran Prpić, hopes to start flying in Croatia from its Dubrovnik base as early as next year, reports Ex-Yu Aviation News.

Dubrovnik Airport

Libertas Air hopes to start flying with its two leased Airbus A320s from April next year.

“The investment is estimated to be worth three million euros with some fifty locals to be employed. The all economy Airbus aircraft will have the capacity to seat 180 passengers. There will be no business class section”, said Prpić.

Libertas Air is looking to take Croatia Airlines’ place in Dubrovnik after the national carrier cancelled most of its winter service to and from Dubrovnik, maintaining only its Zagreb and Rome service. Prpić has met with the mayor of Dubrovnik Andro Vlahušić, with reports indicating that the city is interested in the new airline. “Dubrovnik is ready to back this project by offering logistical support. We are looking for better connections between Dubrovnik and Zagreb. Such an airline could prove an excellent alternative to Croatia Airlines”, the city authorities said in a statement.